2005 Ferrari 575 Superamerica Six-Speed

Chassis no. ZFFGT61A050144835When the Ferrari 550 Maranello was introduced in 1996, it was almost universally considered the most beautiful modern Ferrari in history. With a...

Chassis no. ZFFGT61A050144835

When the Ferrari 550 Maranello was introduced in 1996, it was almost universally considered the most beautiful modern Ferrari in history. With a design that harkened back very tastefully to the 365 GTB/4 Daytona, it was stunning to behold from literally any angle, both inside and out. Largely unchanged from a design standpoint, the 575M that followed benefited from numerous cosmetic and mechanical improvements nonetheless, not the least of which were larger brakes, improved aerodynamics, suspension modifications, a redesigned interior, and a 5.7-liter V-12 that now produced over 500 bhp.

Whereas the 550's only open-top iteration was a “Barchetta” roadster devoid of any permanent weather protection, the 575M saw the introduction of the stunning Superamerica in 2005. With its patented “Revocromico” top the car was converted from a glass-roofed coupe to a true convertible at the push of a button, which saw the carbon-framed roof panel rotate 180-degrees on a single, hinged axis. A simple dial on the interior allowed the driver to adjust the electrochromic glass from fully transparent to fully opaque. The comparatively minor increase in weight was easily offset by the added horsepower, as the Superamerica was treated to the “F133 G” engine, putting out 533 bhp, which made for an advertised top speed of 199 mph, making this then the world's fastest convertible.

The car presented here is one of these 559 Superamericas built during the production run. It is, however, all the more rare as it is one of only about 43 cars built with a manual transmission, of which it is believed about 17 were delivered to the United States. Finishing in Grigio Silverstone (“Silverstone Grey”) over a beige interior with such features as Scuderia Shields on the fenders and Daytona-style seating, the car was delivered new to New York and has resided in the New York-Connecticut area its entire life, always with a known list of esteemed owners. In fact, all service work has been conducted at Miller Motor Cars in Connecticut and over the past 16 years, the car has only accumulated a little over 9,430 miles. In that time, total invoices for service work exceed $100,000 and while some of this was standard warranty work, the amount is certainly reflective of the care the car has received, including replacement of the Revocromico top. This is very common on the Superamerica, as most new tops required such replacement on account of a design flaw. All invoices for service work remain on file, which interested parties are encouraged to review by contacting Collectors Garage. In fact, most recently, the car was returned to the care of Miller Motorcars for a comprehensive inspection to identify any service needs the car may or may not have. Following inspection, it was determined that performing a comprehensive major service would be in order, including timing belts, cam seals, and new tires. The invoices and inspection can be reviewed by interested parties upon request. Having only ever been in the care of Miller Motorcars, this fresh service ensures the car is truly ready for its next owner.

Until it adorned this model, the Superamerica name hadn't been used on a Ferrari since the 1960s and, even then, it was reserved for a car that far exceeded the performance, rarity, and price of otherwise standard Ferraris. In much the same fashion, the 575 Superamerica was a truly limited production model, with each car apparently spoken for before the production even began, reserved for the marque's most loyal clients. Six-speed examples, of course, are tremendously rare and within that exclusive circle, an example with low mileage, known history from new, and documented service work, year after year, represents a virtually unrepeatable opportunity.